The Lagos State Government has reiterated its dedication to advancing the tourism sector by leveraging the rich cultural heritage of the state for economic development.
The State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, shared this commitment during a recent tour of key arts and culture facilities in the Onikan area of Lagos.
Speaking after the tour, Benson-Awoyinka described the initiative as an effort to explore the untapped cultural potential of Lagos. Accompanied by Sterling Bank Plc Managing Director, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, and the Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Mr. Olugbile Holloway, she visited prominent landmarks, including the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture, the National Museum, Onikan House, and Freedom Park.
Benson-Awoyinka emphasized the state’s vision to collaborate with both public and private sectors in promoting tourism as a key driver of economic growth. “The tour underscores that Lagos State is open for tourism. We are focused on showcasing the state’s rich indigenous content, which includes arts, culture, and heritage,” she said.
Highlighting the importance of collaboration, Benson-Awoyinka noted that the Lagos State Government is working closely with various industries to ensure a conducive environment for tourism businesses. “Lagos is a city steeped in history and heritage. Our goal is to reveal the potential of Lagos tourism and start telling our own stories, especially to future generations,” she added.
The Commissioner explained that while the government’s role is to create an enabling environment, it relies on private sector partnerships to drive tourism growth. “We’re not in the business of running tourism ourselves. Sterling Bank, for instance, has played a significant role in enhancing tourism, which is why their Managing Director is part of today’s tour,” she noted.
Mr. Olugbile Holloway, the NCMM Director-General, echoed the call for stronger cooperation between state and federal authorities to position Lagos as a top tourist destination. “Collaboration is key. The National Museum is a historic monument, and by working with Lagos State, we can transform this area into a broader cultural tourism hub,” he said.
Holloway also highlighted the cultural significance of Onikan, noting its potential to serve as a tourism focal point. “With the nearby MUSON Centre and other attractions, this area is primed to become a hub for cultural tourism. Visitors aren’t concerned with whether it’s a federal or state site—they just want to experience it,” he added.
During the tour, Mr. Abimbola Ogunshote, Director of the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, provided insights into the rich history of the Yoruba people, both before and after British colonization. Visitors were particularly drawn to an artistic four-clawed tree installation, a popular spot for photographs. Ogunshote also shared fascinating details about how the Yoruba in the diaspora historically incorporated their traditional deities into Catholic practices, a form of worship known as Santeria.
The tour culminated with the presentation of an electric vehicle produced by Qoray, an affiliate of Sterling Bank, underscoring the partnership between the bank and Lagos State in fostering innovation within the tourism sector.
